Spouses, children and parents of a victim of wrongful death are entitled to economic, non-economic and punitive damages. Understanding the types of damages for wrongful death claims and how the process works for filing a claim against the individual or department responsible for the wrongful death is important.
What Are Damages For Wrongful Death Claims?
Damages are financial contributions and other forms of compensation for wrongful death claims. They are a way for the family of someone who was wrongfully killed due to negligence or intentional behavior to seek retribution and justice. For it to be a wrongful death, the party that makes the claim must be able to provide evidence that suggests the death was unjust due to negligence or an unlawful act.
What Potential Damages Can I Receive From A Claim?
Damages for wrongful death claims are typically in the form of financial compensation and reimbursement. The primary types of potential damages include but are not limited to funeral and burial costs, the loss of financial support, punitive damages and damages related to the loss of companionship.
Funeral And Burial Costs
If the death is deemed wrongful, a loved one can seek compensation for funeral and burial costs. This could be in the form of a reimbursement or the court could pay the funeral home and other involved parties directly so that the representative or their family does not have to pay for the funeral or burial of someone whose death was deemed wrongful.
The Loss Of Financial Support
If your spouse, parent or son is the victim of a wrongful death, then you may be entitled to damages related to the loss of financial support if you relied upon the individual’s wealth or income. This can be included along with other damages within the wrongful death claim.
Punitive Damages
The intention of punitive damages is to punish the individual or department responsible for the wrongful death. This may include financial compensation to the victim’s representative. This form of damage serves as a way to deter the individual from repeating similar behavior that led to the wrongful death.
Loss Of Companionship
Loss of companionship claims is another way to hold the responsible party accountable. This applies to loved ones of the deceased victim that are dealing with the trauma of having lost someone they care for and love.
The Benefits Of Working With A Wrongful Death Attorney
A wrongful death attorney represents the client throughout the claim process. Working with an attorney makes the process easier for the client as they seek damages for the wrongful death of a loved one. They ensure all of the necessary steps are followed and are willing to do what it takes to get their client the damages they deserve.
Seek Legal Advice and Representation
Call The Brown Firm today for legal advice and representation if you intend to seek damages for wrongful death. We are glad to answer your questions and serve as your legal representation through the process. Reach out by phone at 703.828.0900 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you, and helping to get the best possible outcome for you or your family.
